Ter Stegen writes heartfelt message to Nigerian keeper Ikeme

Barcelona star, Marc-Andre ter Stegen has penned a heartfelt message to Nigerian goalkeeper Carl Ikeme after he his was diagnosed with acute leukaemia.

The 31-year-old Wolves star announced that he is to undergo a course of chemotherapy, having been alerted to the condition by abnormal blood results during pre-season testing.

“Today I read the story about Carl Ikeme, a goalkeeper for Nigeria and Wolverhampton, who’s been diagnosed with acute leukaemia. A person I’ve never met but his story affects me and touches my heart,” he posted on his personal Facebook page.

“I can’t underline how important health is. In sport, it means a lot for every athlete; and it’s not just crucial so that we perform well but our health does affect us mentally also. I wish Carl and his family all the strength in the world.

“I’m sure his teammates and club will be there too, and all their fans. It’s important to be united! And me too, I offer all my possible support. I’m hoping he can fight like goalkeepers always do, with a calm and positive mind. I believe in you, Carl. Be strong. Be brave.”

Ikeme who has made more than 200 appearances in the past 14 years for Wolves will now miss Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon next month.